Wireless
and Handgrip Heart Rate Control
Using
some form of heart rate control to control the level of your workout has become
very popular on fitness equipment, particularly treadmills, elliptical trainers
and exercise bicycles. The logic is that your heart rate determines the degree
of your exertion while exercising, rather then relying on your perceived exertion.
On elliptical trainers the level of your heart rate will determine the degree
of resistance. You
will now find heart rate control a standard feature on many exercise machines,
in others it is an option. There are two types of heart rate control, handgrip
and wireless. On elliptical trainers the handgrip heart rate controls requires
you to hold on to stationary handlebars. Unfortunately you do not get the benefits
of the upper body workout.
With
wireless control you attach a strap around your chest and your heart rate is fed
to the console, thus allowing you do get both an upper and lower body workout.
On the EVO REV-600, the heart rate control is located on the moving handlebars,
which appeals to individuals who do not like to workout with a strap around their
chest.
The programs
available with heart rate control can vary. Some come with just one heart rate
program, while high-end models like the Life Fitness have up to five separate programs
like hill training, intervals and extreme heart rate.
Exercising
in a prescribed heart rate zone can optimize your workout and help you to achieve
your fitness goals. See heart rate monitoring for
more information on exercising in your proper heart rate zone. Examples of heart
rate zones are: - Healthy
Heart Zone - 50% - 60% of your maximum heart rate
- Weight
Management Zone - 60% - 70% of your maximum heart rate
- Aerobic
Zone - 70% - 80% of your maximum heart rate
- Anaerobic
Zone - 80% - 90% of your maximum heart rate
- Red-Line
Zone - 90% - 100% of your maximum heart rate
Maximum
heart rate = 220 - your age. These
recommendations are approximations. Beginners should consult their physician first
before starting any exercise routines.
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